The Iconic "Zaisu" Chair Finally Receives the Good Design Long Life Design Award | Tendo Mokko

Tendo Mokko | Tendo Mokko

Simple Functional Beauty Inheriting Nordic Essence

Tendo Mokko's "Zaisu" chair, released in 1963, received the Good Design Long Life Design Award in 2017.

Text by YANAKA Tomomi

Design by Kenji Fujimori, Balancing Functionality and Aesthetics

The Zaisu chair, still seen today in inns and restaurants, has many similar designs on the market. Its progenitor, however, is Tendo Mokko's "Zaisu," released in 1963.

This Zaisu chair has been honored with the "Good Design Long Life Design Award," which recognizes designs that have earned user support over many years and are expected to continue demonstrating their value.

Despite its complex structure, formed from a single piece of molded plywood processed into a three-dimensional curved surface, the design is entirely free of waste. This was achieved by Kenji Fujimori (1919-1993), who studied design in Scandinavia and created functional, beautiful furniture.

The backrest gently fits the user's back, and its flex relieves pressure. The hole in the seat prevents cushions from slipping, while also reducing weight and preventing warping.

Weighing just 1.7 kilograms and designed to be stackable, this thoughtfully crafted piece has been selected for the permanent collection of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. It passes down the functional beauty rooted in Japanese life and culture to future generations.

The award-winning "Zaisu" chair was showcased alongside other winning works at the "Good Design Exhibition 2017," held at Tokyo Midtown in Roppongi from November 1st (Wednesday) to November 5th (Sunday).

Zaisu
Size | W330mm x D490mm x H400mm
Price | ¥21,000 (excluding tax)

Inquiries

Tendo Mokko

http://www.tendo-mokko.co.jp/